Steamboat Springs is surrounded by 4 of Colorado’s great state parks, it’s no wonder that many of the locals are sure to grab a Colorado State Parks Pass every year. Whether you are looking to cast your line into a beautiful mountain lake, hike a new trail, or take a refreshing dip, your Grand Adventure Co Vacation Rental is the perfect home-base for exploring one (or a few!) of these state treasures.
Steamboat Lake State Park:
Known as one of the true jewels of Colorado, Steamboat Lake State Park is a 2800 acre park with an 1100 acre reservoir located near Hahns Peak, a dormant volcano. Take in dramatic views from this idyllic landscape including nearby Hahns Peak, Sand Mountain and The Zirkels. The park has a little of everything you’d expect from a reservoir including boating, paddle boarding, fishing and a swim beach. There are also numerous hiking and biking trails and in the winter snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
Located just 27 miles north of Steamboat, head up for a day trip and be back in time for dinner. If you don’t want to pack a picnic lunch, head to nearby Hahns Peak Village to take in a meal at Steamboat Lake Outpost or Hahn’s Peak Cafe. Directions: Take US 40 West to CO 129 North about 27 miles until you see Steamboat Lake State Park on your left.
Pearl Lake State Park:
Also located in Northern Routt County, Pearl Lake State Park is a lesser known gem surrounded by natural beauty. This small lake does not allow motorized boats but you can take out canoes, paddleboards and other self-propelled options. Or cast a line from the shore. There is also a hiking/biking trail, but most come here for lake activities. Most of the summer, there is a vendor that rents paddle boards right on the lake. Come early, limited parking means that the spaces fill up fast.
Directions: Take US 40 West to CO 129 North about 25 miles. Turn right when you see the Pearl Lake State Park sign and continue to the end of the road.
Stagecoach State Park:
If you are seeking out the “big one” head down to Stagecoach State Park which is home to some record breaking pike. The park holds a 770 acre reservoir which includes a great swim beach and marina. Fish from your boat or the shore or head below the dam to the gold medal tailwaters to try your luck snagging a rainbow trout. With plenty of shoreline and calm coves paddleboarding is also a popular pastime here. Mountain bikers and hikers will also find plenty to do with a few trails including one that slips along the shore of the lake.
Directions: The park is located just south of Steamboat. Head down US 40 East to CO 131 South for a few miles. After the big bend in the road (you’ll know when you see it) look for the left hand turn onto County Road 14. Head south for a few miles and the entrance will be on your left after you come down a small hill where you will start to catch glimpses of the lake.
Yampa River State Park:
Yampa River State Park is actually a 134 mile stretch of the Yampa River running from just west of Steamboat all the way to Dinosaur National Monument. Anglers and rafters alike will enjoy this park as there are around 13 access points along the river, but the main location and Visitor’s Center is located just west of Steamboat. There is a 1.25 mile nature hike that runs along the river as well.
